Her Story
About Karen
Karen Snyder, BSN, RN, Principal Project Manager at University Hospitals, is a healthcare quality and performance improvement leader with 37 years of nursing experience, including 32 years dedicated to advancing quality transformation and operational excellence across healthcare organizations. Based in Cleveland, Ohio, Snyder has built her career around improving patient outcomes, strengthening care delivery systems, and creating sustainable improvements that positively impact both patients and caregivers. She combines her clinical nursing background with expertise in project management, data-driven improvement strategies, and organizational change to help healthcare teams achieve measurable results. Throughout her career at University Hospitals, Snyder has led and facilitated critical systemwide initiatives, including the System Workplace Violence Committee, which focuses on equipping caregivers with tools and strategies to promote safety through de-escalation practices. She also supports initiatives implementing Age-Friendly Care measures aligned with CMS requirements to improve outcomes for the aging population. Her work involves translating complex legislative and regulatory standards into practical bedside practices while monitoring compliance, performance metrics, and opportunities for continuous improvement. Previously, she held Quality Improvement roles at Cleveland Clinic, including Quality Director and Clinical Data Coordinator, where she further developed her expertise in healthcare quality management and process improvement. Snyder earned her nursing diploma from Meridia Huron Hospital School of Nursing, an associate degree from Cuyahoga Community College, and later completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Ursuline College to support the evolving demands of healthcare leadership. She is a Certified OKR Professional, Certified Results Management Leader, and Level 2 OKR Coach, utilizing strategy execution frameworks to drive organizational success. As a quality improvement professional, Snyder leads through influence rather than authority, emphasizing integrity, accountability, efficiency, adaptability, and patient-centered care. Her passion for creating safer, smarter, and more compassionate healthcare systems continues to inspire teams and advance meaningful change throughout the industry.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Karen
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my passion for quality improvement and my commitment to enhancing patient care within the healthcare system. Throughout my career, I have built my experience from working as a registered nurse in diverse clinical settings, including the Intensive Care Unit and the Operating Room, where I developed a deep understanding of complex patient needs and the importance of compassionate, evidence-based care. My transition into utilization review and quality management allowed me to further contribute to improving healthcare processes, ensuring patients receive the right care at the right time. I am driven by a commitment to continuous improvement, accountability, collaboration, and creating meaningful changes that positively impact both patients and the healthcare professionals who serve them.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to be a leader by influence. True leadership is not defined by a title or position, but by the ability to inspire, support, and positively impact others. By building trust, leading with integrity, and demonstrating a commitment to collaboration and excellence, I have learned that meaningful change comes from empowering those around me and creating an environment where everyone can contribute and succeed.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
If you are considering a career in healthcare, know that there is a tremendous need for passionate and dedicated professionals like you. My advice to young women entering this field is to embrace the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. Don't lose sight of your "Why" for entering healthcare. Healthcare is a challenging yet deeply rewarding profession that allows you to contribute to positive change every day. Lead with compassion, remain open to and committed to continuous learning, and always remember to reflect on the difference you have made by asking yourself, “How did I improve someone’s life today?” The ability to serve, advocate for patients, and create lasting change is one of the most fulfilling aspects of a career in healthcare.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge and opportunity in healthcare today is attracting more dedicated professionals to the field. While healthcare can provide career stability and many rewarding opportunities, it is important to recognize that it requires more than just choosing a profession; it requires compassion, commitment, and a genuine desire to serve others. Healthcare has always been a calling built on caring for people during some of their most vulnerable moments. My hope is to inspire more individuals to enter this field with the passion, empathy, and dedication needed to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, accountability, efficiency, and adaptability. I believe in the importance of saying what you do, doing what you say, and consistently following through on your commitments. Building trust requires honesty, reliability, and a commitment to maintaining high standards. I also value working smarter, not harder, by finding efficient solutions and continuously improving processes. In an ever-changing environment, the ability to adapt, embrace new ideas, and remain open to growth is essential for achieving lasting success.
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